Which golf courses near Big Rapids, MI offer the best combination of course quality, practice facilities, lodging, and value in 2026? The area provides several strong options, from university golf close to downtown Big Rapids to destination resorts in Stanwood, Fremont, and Rothbury. Based on available ratings, review volume, listed amenities, and a golfer-focused comparison, these are the best Golf Courses Big Rapids MI travelers should consider.
1. St Ives Golf Course
Located at 9900 St Ives Dr in Stanwood, St Ives Golf Course is one of the most appealing choices for golfers searching near Big Rapids. The course is part of the Tullymore golf destination and is known for its polished club experience, scenic setting, and championship-style layout. Its 4.6 rating from 329 reviews makes it one of the highest-rated options on this list.
The facility is centered on golf, with an established golf club atmosphere and access to the Tullymore Golf Resort network. From a playing perspective, St Ives is a good fit for golfers who want a carefully maintained course and a more upscale round rather than a basic municipal experience.
Address: 9900 St Ives Dr, Stanwood, MI 49346
Phone: (231) 972-4837
Website: http://www.tullymoregolf.com
Pros
- Excellent 4.6 rating from 329 reviews
- Upscale golf club experience
- Strong choice for a destination golf weekend
- Located near Tullymore resort amenities
Cons
- May be less convenient than Big Rapids courses for a quick nine-hole round
- Resort-style golf can be more expensive than local public courses
2. Tullymore Golf Resort
Tullymore Golf Resort, at 11969 Tullymore Dr in Stanwood, is a complete golf getaway rather than only a place to play. The resort combines golf facilities with hotel accommodations, making it especially suitable for visitors planning a multi-day trip near Big Rapids. It holds a 4.5 rating based on 625 reviews, providing a substantial record of guest feedback.
The resort setting is useful for groups, couples, and golf travelers who prefer to stay close to the course. In my comparison of golf destinations in the region, Tullymore stands out because lodging and golf can be arranged in one location, reducing travel between rounds.
Address: 11969 Tullymore Dr, Stanwood, MI 49346
Phone: (231) 972-4837
Website: http://www.tullymoregolf.com
Pros
- Combines golf course access with resort hotel lodging
- 4.5 rating from 625 reviews
- Convenient for golf vacations and group trips
- Near St Ives Golf Course
Cons
- Better suited to a planned golf getaway than a spontaneous local round
- Resort pricing may exceed standard public-course fees
3. Waters Edge Golf Course
Waters Edge Golf Course is located at 1100 Ramshorn Dr in Fremont and offers one of the most complete public golf facility packages in the region. In addition to the course, golfers can use a driving range, golf shop, and professional instruction. The course has a 4.5 rating from 161 reviews.
This is a practical choice for players who want to warm up before playing, take a lesson, or purchase equipment on site. For newer golfers, the combination of instruction and practice facilities is a major advantage. Experienced players can also benefit from having a dedicated range available before a competitive round.
Address: 1100 Ramshorn Dr, Fremont, MI 49412
Phone: (231) 924-2640
Website: https://watersedgefremont.com
Pros
- Public golf course with driving range
- Golf instruction and golf shop on site
- Strong 4.5 rating from 161 reviews
- Suitable for beginners and experienced golfers
Cons
- Located outside Big Rapids proper
- Fewer resort lodging amenities than Tullymore
4. Ferris State University Katke Golf Course
Ferris State University Katke Golf Course is the most convenient option for golfers specifically looking for a course in Big Rapids. Located at 1003 Perry Ave, the course provides a local setting connected to Ferris State University. Its 4.4 rating from 97 reviews suggests consistent approval from golfers and visitors.
The course is a good choice for a straightforward round without traveling to a resort destination. Its Big Rapids location also makes it useful for university visitors, local residents, and travelers who want to stay close to restaurants and other city services. I would place this course high on the list for convenience, particularly when time is limited.
Address: 1003 Perry Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231) 591-3765
Website: https://www.ferris.edu
Pros
- Located directly in Big Rapids
- Convenient for university visitors and local golfers
- Solid 4.4 rating from 97 reviews
- Good option for a quick regional golf outing
Cons
- Fewer listed amenities than Waters Edge
- Does not offer resort lodging or a broad entertainment complex
5. Clear Lake Golf Club
Clear Lake Golf Club, at 14777 150th Ave in Big Rapids, combines golf with several social and event-focused amenities. The property includes a golf course, driving range, bar and grill, event venue, social club, and wedding venue. With a 4.4 rating from 185 reviews, it is a well-regarded choice among Golf Courses Big Rapids MI.
The driving range makes Clear Lake useful for practice, while the bar and grill provide a convenient place to relax after a round. Its event and wedding facilities also make it suitable for outings, celebrations, and organized golf groups.
Address: 14777 150th Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: (231) 796-8200
Website: https://clearlakegolfclub.com
Pros
- Located in Big Rapids
- Includes a driving range and bar and grill
- Event, social club, and wedding facilities
- 4.4 rating from 185 reviews
Cons
- Primarily a local club experience rather than a full resort
- Confirm event schedules and course availability before visiting
6. Double JJ Resort
Double JJ Resort in Rothbury is a broad recreation destination that includes a golf course among many other attractions. The property offers resort lodging, a bar, fine dining, camping, an RV park, horseback riding, miniature golf, a water park, and a video arcade. Its 3.7 rating from 2,427 reviews reflects a large and varied guest base.
Double JJ is best for families or groups seeking activities beyond traditional golf. Golfers who want a quiet, golf-first experience may prefer St Ives, Tullymore, or Clear Lake. However, the resort’s extensive facilities make it an appealing choice for a longer stay with mixed interests.
Address: 5900 S Water Rd, Rothbury, MI 49452
Phone: (231) 894-4444
Website: http://doublejj.com
Pros
- Golf combined with lodging and numerous recreational activities
- Offers camping, RV facilities, dining, and a water park
- Suitable for family vacations and group trips
- Includes both traditional and miniature golf
Cons
- Lower 3.7 rating compared with the other listed courses
- Large resort environment may not suit golfers seeking a quiet round
- Located farther from Big Rapids than the city-based options
For the best overall golf quality, consider St Ives Golf Course or Tullymore Golf Resort. For convenience in Big Rapids, Ferris State University Katke Golf Course and Clear Lake Golf Club are excellent starting points. Waters Edge is particularly attractive for practice and instruction, while Double JJ is the strongest choice for a family-oriented resort stay. Call each facility before traveling to confirm tee times, seasonal hours, rates, and course conditions for 2026.
